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The Everton midfielder was given a warm ovation from his Everton teammates after issuing an apology for his shocking red card during the recent victory at Manchester United.

Rare Incident in English Football

Gueye became the initial Premier League player to be sent off for striking a fellow player in nearly two decades when he slapped his defensive colleague during the fixture. Everton's display was remarkable as they played with a man down for the majority of the game, including added time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts.

'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on social media. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Team Reaction

Gueye was unable to secure an opportunity to converse with the manager or his colleagues at the interval. Afterwards, with the away dressing room celebrating after the narrow victory, the 36-year-old requested to address the whole team and the defender specifically.

• Gueye apologized to Keane for striking him across the head
• The heated 13th-minute altercation occurred after a misplaced pass in his own defensive third
• Additionally he apologized to the team for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the players

Possible Ramifications

Gueye may yet be punished by the club despite the manager's statement that he likes his players fighting with each other. The Scot has a standard punishment process for dismissals and cautions, including fines, which is likely to be implemented in this situation.

Ban and International Duty

The Merseyside club could be without their influential midfielder until the January. The Senegalese international will complete a three-game suspension against Newcastle, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest but could be called up for Africa Cup of Nations responsibilities by his national team before he becomes eligible to play against Chelsea on 13 December.

'Emotions can run high,' he added. 'But nothing justifies such behaviour.'

Opposition Perspective

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt claimed United of lacking urgency in the recent loss, which halted their winning streak at multiple matches.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' said the Dutch defender
• 'We lacked that urgency to score goals,'
• 'When facing sides like Everton,' who drop back it becomes challenging

The Red Devils head to Selhurst Park for the weekend lunchtime start. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said De Ligt. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'